An Examination of Nonsuicidal Self-Injury Among College Students

Abstract

This study examines characteristics (i.e., prevalence, method, age of onset, frequency) of nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) and associated risk factors in a college student sample. Results revealed 11.68% admitted to engaging in NSSI at least once and no significant gender difference in occurrence of NSSI. Even in this college sample, those who self-injure differed substantially from non-self-injurers with regard to emotion regulation, but were not found to differ significantly on either early attachment or childhood trauma and abuse. Importance of understanding NSSI as an emerging behavior among college students is discussed.